A New Chapter in Dementia Care: Heritage Epping's Special Memory Support Unit

In an exciting development for seniors living with dementia, Heritage Epping aged care home has introduced its cutting-edge Memory Support Unit (MSU). The facility, designed to prioritise the mental well-being of residents with dementia, recently hosted a referral breakfast for key partners to showcase its innovative features.

The Memory Support Unit is a thoughtfully crafted space, comprising 14 rooms, beautiful gardens, outdoor green spaces, and a fully equipped kitchen. The environment is designed to induce calmness, with special lighting techniques and gentle background music contributing to a serene atmosphere.

Adding a touch of magic to the MSU is the installation of Tovertafel technology, aptly translating to ‘magic table.’ Developed by NovitaTech, this technology is designed to stimulate both physical and social activities for individuals facing dementia and cognitive challenges. It's a groundbreaking addition aimed at enhancing the overall well-being of residents.

Heritage Epping takes pride in its purpose-led staff who have undergone specialised training with Dementia Australia. These dedicated professionals are committed to assisting residents in maintaining their independence. The facility is not just a place to live; it's a community that understands and supports the unique needs of those living with dementia.

With the launch of the Memory Support Unit, Heritage Epping is setting a new standard in dementia care. The smaller, purposefully designed unit, coupled with innovative technologies like Tovertafel and organisations like The Humour Foundation’s Laughter Care Program, reflects a commitment to providing a nurturing environment for residents.

As Residence Manager Julio Castillo emphasises, the facility is not just a structure; it's a home created with compassion and expertise to enhance the lives of those with dementia.

“All the staff here are on a mission,” he said.

“I think the whole idea to create a Memory Support Unit in a big facility like this is just to have that variable conversation with the family to say that we can look after your loved one.”

The Humour Foundation’s Laughter Care program is built into Heritage Epping’s Memory Support Unit care model. As the resident moves into the MSU, they will participate in the Laughter Care program.

For over 20 years, the Humour Foundation has brought humour to sick children in hospitals with trained performers.

Now, through the innovative Laughter Care program, aged care residents needing positive interactions can feel empowered again.

Every week a mix of residents at the aged care home will use the program through laughter care specialist Lauren, who helps residents interact on their own terms with music, singing, dancing, stories, props and reminiscence.

Laughter care specialist David Wells, often known as fun, free-spirited ‘Freddie’ in his specialist role, said the program was geared towards making inclusive interactions with residents, including their families that needed connection with their loved one.

“If a resident can have a good time and have the sense of confidence and power to really connect with people and make everyone else laugh, it’s really, really great,” he said.  

“That’s what I really love when they take on the role that I’ve got, when they’re facilitating the group, when they’re putting the energy in, when they’re joking around and they are sharing and being kind to each other, when they are being generous.”

Mr Castillo said the Humour Foundation would make a difference at the Epping residence.

“Having the Humour Foundation [is] to engage with them, to bring them out of the room, to work with the family,” he said.

Find out more about Heritage Epping